Inflammation: Everything You Need to Know

The word has been bounced around for quite a lot but how much do we really know about inflammation?

Inflammation is a process where your body’s white blood cells (as well as the things they create) protect you from bacteria and viruses.  It’s the immune system’s response to an outside irritant.

Signs you have Inflammation in Your Body

Inflammation is often characterized by swelling, redness, stiffness, and pain in the joints.  In some cases, it may cause fever, headaches, and loss of appetite among others.

This medical condition is classified into two.  There’s acute inflammation which can be gone within hours or days and chronic inflammation which can last for months and sometimes, even years.

Remedies

The common misconception among many people is that inflammation can’t be controlled but the truth is there are ways to reduce or even prevent inflammation and below are some of them.

Green tea

Studies have shown that drinking green tea is an effective way to deal with inflammation.  It can help reduce inflammation of the digestive tract as well as treat other health conditions like Crohn’s disease.

The good news is there are now lots of ways to consume green tea.  You can either drink them just like you would your regular tea or take them in pill form.

Turmeric

The curcumin or the yellow pigment found in turmeric has been proven to be an effective anti-inflammatory agent.

It is also worth noting that curcumin and turmeric have been long used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines, particularly in reducing inflammation and in the treatment of wounds and various infections.  

Today, curcumin is widely sold as a supplement, giving you more options to introduce this amazing agent into the body.

Chili peppers

What makes pepper very hot is a chemical called capsaicin, the same chemical known to contain anti-inflammatory properties.

Just about any kind of chili pepper contains capsaicin including cayenne and the ever famous jalapeno.

There are also several ways to consume chili peppers.  They can be taken fresh or in powder form together with a variety of dishes and delicacies.

It’s worth noting that supplements containing capsaicin are usually combined with other herbs to create a powerful anti-inflammatory combo.

Rosemary 

Rosemary has also been found to be a good anti-inflammatory agent.  

One study showed that rosemary came out as having one of the strongest positive effects against inflammation and oxidation after it was given to participants in small amounts together with other herbs. 

Cinnamon

Made from the bark of cinnamon trees native to Southeast Asia, this popular spice has been shown to carry lots of health benefits.

Apart from being anti-inflammatory, cinnamon also contains antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and antioxidant properties that can be used to treat various diseases and medical conditions.

Cinnamon has also been found to be effective in fighting neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Final Thoughts

Inflammation is something you simply can’t ignore especially if it’s chronic.  While the symptoms may be considered not serious, you can’t leave anything to chance when it comes to this medical condition.

Incorporating these items into your daily diet is a good way of reducing as well as preventing inflammation especially if the initial symptoms mentioned are undeniably present.